The Fellowship of Lifea Christian-based vegetarian network founded in 1973

ArticlesStar interest for St. Francis's Day

From the former British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection
journal AV Times (October, 1969):

The accompanying picture was
not taken on the TV set during rehearsal for one of Spike Milligan's
World of Beachcomber series. It just shows him being interviewed by the
BUAV's recently joined AV Set Organiser, Philip Barrow.

Milligan
was not fooling when, on World Day for Animals, he filled the celebrity
spot at the public meeting put on at Worthing Town Hall by the local
BUAV Branch.

Posed the hoary old faithful question whether he
would or would not sacrifice the life of a pet to save one of his
children, he frankly admitted that he might - but that it would have to
be his responsibility and that if he chose to do so he would be wrong.

Under the chairmanship of veteran anti-vivisectionist, the Rev.
Basil Viney, there was a lively general discussion centred on
anti-vivisection but also embracing wider animal welfare issues. It was
by no means another gathering of the "converted" and the general debate
was vigorous and lively.

And lively is the only word to describe
the conduct of Exeter's first-ever pet service on World Day for Animals,
held at the city's St. Olave's Church. Not only was there a python
present - adding a touch of Eden perhaps - but, to quote the Exeter
Express and Echo: "A tortoise, hamsters, mice, guinea pigs and a Siamese
cat came along. Although there were many different breeds of dogs
sitting almost on each others' tails, on the floor of the pews, they
knew their places and restrained their more aggressive instincts while
in church."